RIH Highlights & Happenings - December 20, 2024

December 20, 2024

A Message from the Superintendent

Season's Greetings, RIH Community,

The holiday season is in full swing at our high schools, and we are grateful to our students and staff for their hard work in creating such festive and enjoyable celebrations.

We kindly remind you that the upcoming holiday break is "homework-free" for all students. This provides a wonderful opportunity for students to engage in cherished family customs and traditions, to learn about family history through stories and photographs, and for parents to join their children in their interests and hobbies, enjoying simple pleasures like board games and puzzles.

We hope this break allows for continued educational engagement while fostering quality time with loved ones.

School will be dismissed on Friday, December 20, and classes will resume on Thursday, January 2, 2025.

We wish our entire district community a joyous holiday season filled with health, peace, and happiness.

Shauna C. DeMarco

Superintendent of Schools

To ensure you see all of the newsletter content, please click the 'View Entire Message' option if it appears at the bottom.

Join the Conversation: RSVP for Kitchen Table Conversations with Superintendent DeMarco

Want to connect with our Superintendent and share your insights? Join Ms. DeMarco for 'Kitchen Table Conversations.' These informal discussions offer a valuable opportunity to engage in open dialogue and contribute your perspectives.

Available Sessions: (Limited to 25 participants each)

Tuesday, January 14: 9:00 - 10:30 a.m.
Tuesday, January 14: 12:30 - 2:00 p.m.
Wednesday, January 15: 6:30 - 8:00 p.m.

Please RSVP by January 7, 2025 to secure your spot. Additional sessions will be offered in the spring. Sign up here.

IHHS Choir Shines at Radio City Music Hall

A group of talented students from Ms. Heerema's IHHS choir class had the unforgettable experience of performing on the legendary stage of Radio City Music Hall! They delighted the audience with renditions of 'Mary Did You Know' and 'Carol of the Bells' at this world-renowned venue.

RIH Model UN Delegates Tackle Global Challenges

The RIH Model United Nations programs recently hosted a successful practice conference at Ramapo High School. Students from both clubs participated, simulating UN committees like the World Health Organization (WHO), the Disarmament and International Security Committee (DISEC), and the Social, Humanitarian, and Cultural Committee (SOCHUM).

Delegates, representing diverse nations, engaged in lively debate and negotiation, tackling pressing global issues such as space exploration, access to education, and equitable vaccine distribution. They collaborated to draft resolutions aimed at enhancing global security and advancing humanitarian aid worldwide.

Building on this valuable experience, both clubs will now proceed to the AMUN conference at Bergen Academies in February.

IHHS Student Ryleigh Burchell Joins All-State Choir

Congratulations to Ryleigh Burchell on her incredible achievement in securing a spot in the New Jersey Music Educator's Association's All-State Choir!

This demanding audition process is a testament to her dedication and talent. We are incredibly proud of Ryleigh for this enriching experience and recognize that her participation in the IHHS high school choir has played a crucial role in her success.

Well done, Ryleigh!

Congratulations: RIH Students Named Bergen County "Unsung Heroes"

We extend our warmest congratulations to Indian Hills student Theo Sofocleous and Ramapo student Jenelyn Valdiva for their recognition as Bergen County "Unsung Heroes." This prestigious award will be bestowed upon them at an awards ceremony in March 2025, honoring their outstanding achievements.

FAQs Released Regarding New Rotating Drop-Block Schedule

The Ramapo Indian Hills Regional High School District has released a new set of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) to address community concerns regarding the implementation of the new Rotating Drop-Block Schedule for the 2025-26 school year.

This resource provides valuable insights into key considerations, including addressing longer learning periods, after-school activities, and transportation and fiscal impact.

This FAQ document is the first of several resources that will be made available to support the successful transition to the new schedule.

View the FAQs Here

Updated RIH Athletics Handbook Now Available

This handbook is a valuable resource for parents and student-athletes. It provides essential information about the athletic programs at both Ramapo and Indian Hills High Schools.

Key Features:

Comprehensive overview of the athletic programs at each school.
Guidelines for student-athletes and their families.
Important information on eligibility, sportsmanship, and more.

View the Handbook Here

Stay up-to-date with the latest schedules and scores on the rSchool Today app, available for download on Apple and Google Play.

In Our Classrooms

The annual Holiday Festival, where Indian Hills students host a festive party for children from Oasis in Paterson, was a resounding success. Held at IHHS, the event featured games, crafts, and delicious treats, bringing smiles to the faces of all the children. The highlight of the afternoon was a surprise visit from Santa Claus, adding extra magic to the celebration. We extend our heartfelt thanks to Ms. LaChac and Ms. Ferrara for their tireless efforts in organizing this heartwarming event, making it a truly memorable experience for everyone involved.

Students in Mrs. Shaara's Yoga Class at Ramapo are learning to cultivate strength and flexibility through the practice of the Warrior Pose, a challenging but rewarding yoga posture.

IHHS and RHS AP Government students, under the guidance of Mr. Paravati and Mr. Vander Molen, traveled to Philadelphia to explore historical landmarks. At the Constitution Center and the Liberty Bell, students deepened their understanding of the founding fathers and the principles that shaped our nation.

Juniors and seniors from the UPED and UPSMR programs recently attended an engineering career day event at NJIT. They explored a wide range of engineering fields, including biomechanical, chemical, mechanical and industrial, civil, electrical and computer, and engineering technology. The event also featured exciting demonstrations of hobby and commercial drones. In addition, our faculty – Ms. Iwaki, Ms. Murphy, and Mr. Russell – participated in valuable workshops focused on teaching positive uncertainty to inspire confident decision-making in students.

Señora McLaughlin's Cinema class at Indian Hills concluded their thematic unit with an engaging "Feliz Navidad" sing-along, creating a joyful and festive atmosphere while celebrating friendship.

Students in Ms. Miller's Horticulture class at Indian Hills spread holiday cheer with their annual wreath decorating and sale. These beautifully crafted wreaths, made with creativity and care, are sure to brighten any home. Happy Holidays!

A collaborative field trip to 'Michelangelo's Sistine Chapel: The Exhibit' in Brooklyn brought together students from Ms. Noah's Ramapo and Mr. Luke's Indian Hills AP Modern European History classes. Guided by an art historian, they explored the intricacies of Michelangelo's masterpieces and gained valuable historical insights. The students found the experience both engaging and enlightening.

Come saresti da mostro marino? Signora Lazzara’s Cinema students imagined themselves as sea monsters with their personalities as the source of inspiration. What’s your superpower?

Señora Brown’s Spanish 1 classes enjoyed their time creating action-verb stories about snowflakes. Son muy bonitas y interesantes.

Ms. Iwaki's Chemistry students at Ramapo got into the holiday spirit this week with a unique lab activity: creating dazzling silver-plated ornaments! A creative and festive way to apply their chemistry knowledge.

Mrs. Deamer's Pre-Calculus class recently embarked on an exciting "Alien Decoder" mystery to reinforce their understanding of the Law of Sines and Law of Cosines.

To solidify their understanding of solving inequalities, students in Mrs. Vitale and Mrs. Monterrey's Algebra 1 classes participated in an engaging "Whodunnit" review activity.

Celebrate Our Athletes

Congratulations to Ramapo's Connor Pane and Indian Hills' Luke Festa!

Both student athletes have achieved a remarkable honor: they have both been named finalists for the prestigious Steve DiGregorio Man of the Year Award, presented by the Super Football Conference and the NY Jets. Connor and Luke will be attending a special ceremony on January 7, 2025 to celebrate this significant achievement alongside other finalists from across the conference. The Steve DiGregorio Man of the Year Award recognizes outstanding high school athletes across 113 schools in the conference.

The Indian Hills High School Girls Basketball team is hosting a Girls Holiday Tournament on Friday, December 27 and Saturday, December 28.

Games will be played at 10 a.m. and 12 p.m. each day. Come out and show your support!

Update from Office of Curriculum, Instruction & Articulation: University Program Updates & Academic Support

Fall Block 2024 NJGPA Individual Score Reports Available

For students who participated in the Fall administration of the NJGPA to meet graduation requirements, Individual Score Reports (ISRs) will be available on the New Jersey Parent Portal beginning December 18. Additionally, a letter with the ISRs is being sent to students and parents by December 20. Should you have any questions or concerns, please contact: mquackenbush@rih.org.

University Program Application Deadline and Next Steps

University Program applications for 2025-2026 were due on Thursday, December 19. The next steps in the application process is for the Ramapo Indian Hills Curriculum Office to collect supporting documentation from FLOW Middle Schools. Students and parents can anticipate final application decisions on or before February 28. For more information or questions, please contact up@rih.org.

Anticipated Launch Academic Assistance Program

Starting on January 6, students will have an opportunity to get personalized academic support through our Academic Assistance Program. This initiative connects students directly with teachers for additional help outside regular class hours.

Students can meet with teachers in person or virtually to receive targeted support in challenging subjects, get help with homework, or review difficult concepts. Whether preparing for an upcoming test or seeking to strengthen foundational skills, students will benefit from additional support.

Program details, including how to schedule sessions with teachers, will be sent out on Friday, January 3rd. We look forward to supporting our students’ academic success through this valuable resource.

Program of Studies for 2025-2026 is Now Available

The Program of Studies for 2025-2026 has been published on the District website under “Academics → Curriculum.” This Program of Studies serves as your comprehensive academic planning guide, detailing New Jersey graduation requirements, district course offerings, and post-secondary resources. This resource supports the selection of appropriate high school courses, which is a collaboration between families and school staff. Both Indian Hills and Ramapo High Schools provide diverse educational opportunities to meet State and District requirements while encouraging students to pursue academically challenging and personally meaningful courses.

Counseling Corner

Instant Decision Day Wrap Up: Class of 2025

The RIH Guidance Offices hosted Instant Decision Day events throughout the fall. Instant Decision Days (IDD) are offered by a limited number of colleges.

At IHHS, there were twelve opportunities for students to participate in Instant Decision Days with Bergen Community College, Caldwell College, Drew University, East Stroudsburg University, Fairleigh Dickinson, Kean University, NJIT, Ramapo College, Sacred Heart University (interviews only), Quinnipiac University, William Paterson University. Of the students who participated in IDD, all were offered an acceptance to at least one college. Unfortunately, several IDDs were canceled due to lack of student participation.

At RHS, there were ten opportunities for students to participate in Instant Decision Days with BCC, NJIT, Quinnipiac, Ramapo College, Sacred Heart University (interviews only) , Salve Regina, Seton Hall, Stockton University, and William Paterson. Of the students who participated in IDD, all were offered an acceptance to at least one college. The amount of merit aid shared upon the IDD ranged from $3,000 to $32,0000.

Special thank you to Ms. Piccinno (RHS), Mrs. Sherry (IHHS), and Mrs. Zakrzewski (IHHS) as the School Counselors organizing events in each respective school.

View the December Guidance Newsletter Here

RIH Educators Explore AI at Summit

Members of the RIH Administrative team and faculty recently attended and presented at the AI Literacy Summit, a professional development event for educators in New Jersey. This summit brought educators together to explore the potential of AI in education, share innovative tools, exchange emerging best practices, and learn from each other in this rapidly evolving landscape.